Business leaders say the public sector could save at least 25 billion pounds a year by reforming the way it buys goods and services. In a report today the Institute of Directors argues that within three years a radical restructuring of public sector procurement could bring annual savings of 15 billion a year and greater use of shared services and outsourcing could save a further 10 billion pounds.

Teachers students, parents and the general public still see A-levels and GCSEs in a positive light according to a new survey. The study, carried out for Ofqual the exams regulator, by Ipsos MORI, found that the number of teachers with concerns about A-levels has grown.

Budget are coming under pressure across the public services. Although education is a priority with some ring fencing, there will be no exemption from the pain of cuts. The author offers a range of suggestions for pain free cost savings.